# Defining cis-regulatory networks controlling a core stress response

> **NIH NIH R35** · STATE UNIVERSITY OF NEW YORK AT ALBANY · 2021 · $375,840

## Abstract

ABSTRACT
The goal of our research program is to dissect the mechanisms underlying the establishment and activity of
cis-regulatory elements and their control of transcriptional gene networks. We are focused on the cellular
response to DNA damage, a well-conserved pathway required for preservation of genome fidelity and overall
organismal homeostasis. During this funding period, we will focus on the activity of the transcription factor p53,
which acts a central hub within the DNA damage gene regulatory network. Misregulation of p53 activity is
directly implicated in numerous human diseases, but we lack key insight into how p53 controls cell fate
decisions after exposure to DNA damage. We have generated a set of novel hypotheses regarding how cis-
regulatory elements, combinatorial transcription factor activity, and 3D genome structure work in concert with
p53 to maintain genome fidelity. Our group utilizes advanced genetic, epigenetic, and genomic engineering
combined with classical genetic and biochemical models to parse the mechanistic contributions of regulatory
elements, chromatin structure, and transcription factor activity to DNA damage response transcription and
ultimately, cell fate determination. Mapping functional networks and mechanisms controlling the DNA damage
response will significantly broaden our understanding of human development, aging, and build towards precise
molecular control over therapeutic cellular reprogramming paradigms and genome editing.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10215567
- **Project number:** 5R35GM138120-02
- **Recipient organization:** STATE UNIVERSITY OF NEW YORK AT ALBANY
- **Principal Investigator:** Morgan Andrew Sammons
- **Activity code:** R35 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2021
- **Award amount:** $375,840
- **Award type:** 5
- **Project period:** 2020-08-01 → 2025-07-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10215567

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10215567, Defining cis-regulatory networks controlling a core stress response (5R35GM138120-02). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-23 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10215567. Licensed CC0.

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